Traditional Society
1. In Max Weber's definition of a traditional society, emphasis is placed on family and kinship. How important is family and kinship to Koigi Wamwere? How is its importance described?
2. Describe the impact of colonialism on Kenya? Consider rural policy and land distribution, education, professional development, feelings about self and race. Also include spiritual and religious aspects.
3. Describe the actual living conditions in Kenya during the colonial period.
4. In the traditional society described, describe relations between genders and the activities that had gender specificity.
5. Why did Koigi's father not want him to go into the priesthood?
6. What was Koigi's attitude to circumcision (male and female)?
Anti-Colonial Struggle for Independence
7. Describe the policy of "divide and conquer".
8. How did the British deal with the Mau Mau insurgency?
9. What does the author mean by "pyramid of violence"?
Jomo Kenyatta Years
10. At the time of independence, what were Jomo Kenyatta's general policies towards British settlers, former officials, and land owners?
11. In the 1973-74 period, how did Kenyatta deal with oppositions leaders such as Tom Mboya and J.M. Karinki?
12. What social forces emerged after the death of Tom Mboya?
13. Why was Koigi "detained" in the Kenyatta years of 1975-78?
Daniel arap Moi Years
14. What did Daniel arap Moi mean by the motto, "It is our turn to eat"?
15. Why did President Moi dislike Koigi?
16. What techniques did President Moi use to ensure that Parliament supported his programs?
17. Describe the various methods Moi used to try to control and manipulate Koigi.
18. Under President Moi, were opposition parties legal in theory and practice?
19. How did President Moi respond to the coup attempt of some Air Force officers?
20. How did the U.S. react to the dictatorship of President Moi?
21. What happened to prisoners who refused to eat porridge that had sand in it?
22. How was President Moi's brother-in-law Eric Bomett elected as a member of parliament?
23. What happened to prisoners who refused to eat porridge with sand in it?
24. How did the US react to Moi's dictatorship? What did the U.S. do to encourage democracy?
25. Why did Koigi leave Kenya?